Mn2CO10

Mn2(CO)10, commonly written Mn2CO10, is a dinuclear manganese carbonyl complex. It belongs to the broader class of metal carbonyl clusters and has been studied as a synthetic precursor and as a model system for manganese–carbonyl bonding.

The molecule consists of two manganese atoms connected by a network of carbon monoxide ligands, collectively coordinating ten CO ligands. In a conventional view, it can be described as two Mn(CO)5 units linked together, with an Mn–Mn interaction and a covalent bonding framework typical of early transition-metal carbonyls.

Mn2(CO)10 has been described in the organometallic literature. It is typically prepared by condensation of Mn(CO)5 fragments under carbon monoxide or by redistribution or condensation reactions involving manganese carbonyl species under CO pressure. The solid is sensitive to air and moisture and is normally handled under inert atmosphere, often in a glovebox or using Schlenk techniques.

Upon photolysis or heating, Mn2(CO)10 can lose CO ligands to form lower-nuclearity manganese carbonyl species, and CO loss is typically reversible in the presence of CO. The complex also serves as a convenient source of Mn(CO)5 fragments for the synthesis of other manganese carbonyl compounds.

As a well-characterized manganese carbonyl cluster, Mn2(CO)10 provides insight into metal–metal bonding and carbonyl interactions in dinuclear manganese systems and functions as a synthetic precursor in organomanganese chemistry.

Safety is a consideration: carbon monoxide is highly toxic, and carbonyl complexes may evolve CO under heating or light. The compound is typically handled under inert atmosphere with proper ventilation.